“Framework Agreement is Sacred and Binding”: Thuingaleng Muivah reaffirms NSCN (IM)’s stand on sovereignty, Naga flag, and constitution during emotional homecoming to Ukhrul

In an emotionally charged and historic homecoming after nearly five decades, Thuingaleng Muivah, the Ato Kilonser (Prime Minister) of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), reaffirmed that the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015, remains the unshakable foundation for any final Indo-Naga political settlement. The 90-year-old revolutionary leader, revered as one of the principal architects of the Naga political movement, reiterated that the Naga flag, constitution, and sovereignty are non-negotiable pillars of Naga identity and nationhood.
Arriving in Ukhrul by helicopter under clear blue skies, Muivah was greeted by thousands of emotional supporters who thronged the streets in traditional Tangkhul attire. The town was adorned with banners, flags, and floral decorations — a sea of joy and reverence marking the return of a leader who has stood as the symbol of the Naga people’s unyielding struggle for self-determination.
For many, it was not just a political event, but a deeply spiritual moment — the return of a son of the soil whose vision and leadership have defined the course of Naga history. The chants of “Kuknalim!” echoed across Ukhrul as the aged leader, frail yet resolute, waved to the sea of people who came to welcome him home.
“Framework Agreement is the Cornerstone of Peace”
Addressing a mammoth gathering of Naga leaders, church elders, students, and villagers at the Tangkhul Naga Long Ground, Muivah spoke with visible emotion and conviction. “I have come here to thank God and to thank my people for their faith,” he began. “The cause we fight for is greater than us, older than us, and it will live beyond us.”
Reiterating the NSCN (IM)’s position, Muivah declared that the Framework Agreement, signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, must remain the guiding document of the Indo-Naga peace process. “We have not surrendered the free existence and sovereignty of Nagalim,” he said firmly. “The Framework Agreement is the cornerstone of peace — a recognition of our unique history and political rights. It must not be tampered with.”
He recalled three defining milestones that have shaped the peace process:
The Ceasefire Agreement of August 1, 1997, which formally ended decades of armed conflict.
The Amsterdam Joint Communiqué of July 11, 2002, recognizing the uniqueness of Naga history.
And the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015, which laid the political foundation for coexistence through shared sovereignty.
“These three historic steps are not mere documents,” he stressed. “They are political and historical pillars that define the mutual respect and understanding between India and the Naga people.”
“This Peace Process is Between Two Entities”
With his deep, deliberate voice echoing across the crowd, Muivah clarified that the Naga peace process was initiated on the basis of equality and mutual respect. “This is not a process of surrender,” he emphasized. “It is a political dialogue between two entities — the Government of India and the Naga nation.”
He elaborated that the Framework Agreement recognizes the sovereign rights of both sides, envisioning a shared sovereignty arrangement where India and Nagalim coexist while sharing sovereign powers. “Sovereignty lies with the people,” Muivah said. “The Framework Agreement acknowledges this truth and seeks peaceful coexistence based on respect and recognition.”
Sounding a note of warning, he added that any attempt to distort or dilute the spirit of the Framework Agreement would be a grave betrayal of the trust built over nearly three decades of dialogue. “We have upheld our commitment faithfully,” he said. “Now it is the duty of the Government of India to uphold what was mutually agreed upon.”
“Flag and Constitution are the Soul of Our Nation”
Muivah made it unequivocally clear that the Naga flag and constitution — the twin symbols of Naga nationhood — cannot be compromised under any circumstance. “The Naga flag and constitution are the soul of our political being,” he declared. “They embody our history, our struggle, and our identity. To compromise them is to compromise our existence itself.”
He reminded the audience that the Naga struggle is not merely about political power but about the right to live as a free people under God’s authority. “Our fight is for the right to live with dignity as a people created by God, distinct and free,” he said, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
A Call for Unity and Forgiveness
In a heartfelt appeal to the Naga people, Muivah urged unity across tribal and political lines. “Unity is not a matter of convenience,” he said softly but firmly. “It is the will of God for our people. Without unity, we cannot fulfill the destiny God has given us.”
He acknowledged the internal divisions that have troubled the Naga movement over the years and called for healing and reconciliation. “We must forgive one another for our past mistakes,” he said. “Let us heal our wounds, reconcile, and march forward as one people, one nation.”
His message of reconciliation struck a deep chord with the audience, many of whom were seen wiping tears as they listened. The crowd responded with loud cheers when he declared, “No power on earth can destroy us if we remain united under God.”
Faith and Legacy of Sacrifice
True to the Naga spirit of faith, Muivah invoked the slogan “Nagalim for Christ,” emphasizing that it reflects not only religious belief but also the moral and spiritual foundation of the Naga movement. “Our strength does not lie in arms or politics,” he said. “It lies in our faith in God and in the righteousness of our cause.”
He paid solemn tribute to the countless Nagas who had laid down their lives for the cause of freedom and dignity. “They gave their lives so that future generations may live free,” he said, his voice breaking with emotion. “Their blood has written the history of Nagalim. We owe it to them to keep the flame burning.”
Muivah also called upon the younger generation to take up the mantle of responsibility with courage, wisdom, and honesty. “The future of Nagalim lies in your hands,” he said. “Stand firm in truth, guard your faith, and serve your people with integrity.”
“Peace with Honour is Possible”
While reiterating the NSCN (IM)’s unwavering stand, Muivah expressed continued commitment to peace through dialogue. “We entered into talks in good faith,” he said. “We believe that both India and the Naga people can coexist peacefully if we respect each other’s rights.”
He added that the Framework Agreement was not meant to be a mere political compromise but a visionary document that could redefine the relationship between India and the Naga nation. “We entered this agreement as equals,” he said. “And that spirit must be honoured if peace is to be meaningful and lasting.”
Muivah’s concluding words were both spiritual and resolute. “As long as we remain true to our faith and unity, no force on earth can destroy our nation,” he proclaimed. “Our journey is long, but our victory is certain because our cause is just and our faith is strong.”
He ended with the resounding cry that has become synonymous with the Naga struggle — “Kuknalim!” — sending a wave of emotion and applause through the thousands gathered at Tangkhul Naga Long Ground.
A Historic Homecoming
Muivah’s homecoming after nearly five decades was not only political but deeply symbolic — a moment that rekindled memories of a long and painful journey of resistance, hope, and faith. For the people of Ukhrul and the Naga nation at large, his words were both a reassurance and a reminder: that the Naga political struggle, rooted in history and faith, continues to seek justice, peace, and recognition.
As the sun set over the Ukhrul hills, the air resonated with songs of faith and freedom. Men, women, and children held each other’s hands, their eyes glistening with tears and pride — knowing they had witnessed history being written once more by the man who has dedicated his entire life to the Naga cause.
And in that sacred moment, the message of Thuingaleng Muivah rang clear and eternal:
“The Framework Agreement is sacred. The flag and constitution are our identity. Nagalim shall live — for Christ, for freedom, and for the generations to come.”